Ideas Are Everywhere: Stop Ignoring Them

The best opportunity often hide in plain sight, from local businesses to everyday needs. It’s about noticing small gaps or unmet needs, where solutions can be found and turned into real opportunities.

This afternoon after work, I hit L.A. Fitness for a shoulder workout with a friend. Naturally, he roasted me about my first post, like any good friend would. "So, you think you’re an expert now?" he joked while loading up the weights. But then he got serious. "What if I never come up with a good idea?" he asked. I stared at him, mid-rep, thinking, Yeah… what if? hmm, you don’t need to dream up the next iPhone.

But you know what they’re everywhere if you know where to look. Take the neighborhood economy for example, ever heard of it? Probably not, but you’ve definitely lived it.

And guess what? The neighborhood economy is bursting with potential ideas.

Can I Make Money from It?

Absolutely, yes! Some of the biggest business ideas start at the local level. Airbnb? Started with a couple of air mattresses in a San Francisco apartment. DoorDash? Born from the frustration of not being able to get late-night takeout.

Here’s the thing: the neighborhood economy gives you insight into real, everyday problems. And where there’s a problem, there’s an opportunity for a solution.

How Do You Spot the Right Idea?

Look for friction points Wherever you see people getting frustrated or inconvenienced, there’s a potential business opportunity.

Talk to locals People (I do) love to complain, and hidden in those complaints are clever business ideas.

Notice patterns If you’re hearing the same problem from multiple people, congratulations! you’ve found a market gap.

Steal (ethically) No, not literally, but adapt successful ideas from other places and tailor them to your neighborhood’s needs.

Now, Back to L.A. Fitness

After the workout, as we were leaving the gym (arms barely functional), my friend said, “So… what’s your big idea?”

I smiled, “I just posted it!” and his response? Weirdo. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting that, but hey, at least he’s honest! Guess that’s what happens when you share your thoughts with a friend who’s not afraid to keep it real.